real estate agent reads best real estate books

Best Real Estate Books for New Agents in 2024

As a new real estate agent, there is a lot to learn. While it may feel overwhelming initially – time, patience, and education will all help. Education, in particular, will bolster your comfort level and ability to help buyers and sellers. One of the simplest, fastest, and most effective ways to build your knowledge base is through reading. You can ease your nerves and build your confidence for the cost of a couple of books (or a free library card). 

Whether you prefer a classic hardcover or browsing on your tablet, these best books for new real estate agents can help you jump-start your career:

3 Must Read Business Real Estate Books

 Here are three business books that may appeal to you. 

1. Your First Year in Real Estate: Making the Transition from Total Novice to Successful Professional by Dirk Zeller 

 Zeller has been a real estate agent, coach, and writer for decades and offers time-tested advice on finding the right company to work for, developing relationships, crafting effective online marketing and social media, managing the ever-shifting real estate climate, and much more. The book hones in on what it takes to transition into the industry successfully. 

2. The Millionaire Real Estate Agent by Gary Keller 

This essential handbook, endorsed by industry leaders, offers step-by-step guidance for professionals at any level. Learn the key concepts and models that drive high achievement in real estate, including strategies to earn, net, and receive a million in annual income. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, this book is your roadmap to financial freedom and excellence in your career. 

3. Outliers: The Story of Success by Malcolm Gladwell 

You’re in for a treat if you haven’t read any of Gladwell’s best-selling books. You will learn how and why high achievers do what they do through entertaining stories and examples. Outliers notes that anyone can be successful if they are willing to put in the work and take advantage of opportunities. The book also encourages the idea of “practical intelligence,” which is knowing what to say, when, and how to say it. 

3 Must Read Communication Real Estate Books

Communication is a crucial skill for real estate agents. Here are three texts that will help you share ideas better with your clients, colleagues, and other people in the industry. 

4. Sell with Soul: Creating an Extraordinary Career in Real Estate Without Losing Your Friends, Your Principles or Your Self-Respect by Jennifer Allan-Hagedorn 

With step-by-step guidelines for surviving (and even thriving in) your first year, Sell with Soul offers personal stories, checklists, pitfalls, and encouragement, reminding new agents to put their client’s needs first while staying true to themselves. 

5. Exactly What to Say: For Real Estate Agents by Phil M Jones, Chris Smith, and Jimmy Mackin 

This book offers 30 Magic Words to navigate the most crucial and challenging conversations agents face. Say goodbye to confusion and frustration and hello to mastering the art of communication in real estate. 

6. Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes are High by Joseph Grenny, Kerry Patterson, Ron McMillan, Al Switzler, and Emily Gregory 

Unlock the power of effective communication in your real estate dealings with this book, which provides practical skills to navigate challenging discussions and ensure they lead to successful outcomes. From handling high-stakes negotiations to communicating effectively across various platforms, this book equips you with the tools to thrive in any conversation.

3 Must Read Self-Improvement Real Estate Books

Become a better person with the strategies outlined in these self-improvement books. 

7. Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck 

Do you have a Growth Mindset or a Fixed Mindset? Since you’re willing to embark on a new career, you likely have more of a growth mindset, where you believe your talents and abilities can be developed. This illuminating book examines how success in almost every aspect of our lives is influenced by what we think and explains how you can use this notion to connect, motivate, and accomplish more. 

 8. Juliet’s School of Possibilities: A Little Story About the Power of Priorities by Laura Vanderkam 

While not a real estate tome, this charming fable will remind you that “Expectations are infinite. Time is finite. You are always choosing. Choose well.” If you struggle with time management and always feel like you’re racing from one appointment to the next, this story will help you re-examine your relationship with time and reset your priorities. Juliet’s School of Possibilities is a quick and enlightening read that will remind you of what’s most important in life and how to make time for everything. Vanderkam’s Off the Clock also helps professionals “feel less busy while getting more done.” 

9. The Miracle Morning for Real Estate Agents: It’s Your Time to Rise and Shine by Hal Elrod, Michael Maher, Michael Reese and Jay Kinder 

This top seller shows readers how much of an impact their morning routine can have on the day—and their career—to follow. Focusing on personal and professional success, The Miracle Morning for Real Estate Agents sets the stage for reaching the next level. Even night owls give this guide great reviews!

3 Must Read Marketing Real Estate Books

A well-developed marketing plan is necessary to achieve success in real estate. Here are some texts to help. 

10. Mindset, Model, and Marketing!: The Proven Strategies to Transform and Grow Your Real Estate Business by Tom Ferry 

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this book is a go-to resource for goal-setting and finding success in the industry. Discover how to take bold action, win listings with confidence, leverage your network for profit, and scale your business effectively with Ferry’s actionable advice. 

11. The HyperLocal HyperFast Real Estate Agent by Daniel James Lesniak 

Despite industry challenges, Lesniak achieved remarkable results in his first year, selling over $22 million through a unique strategy. Learn how to identify profitable markets, add value to clients, and effectively communicate your proposition using the Segmentation, Targeting, and Positioning (STP) framework. Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned agent, this book offers practical insights for thriving in competitive markets. 

12. The Real Estate Marketing Playbook by Brandon Doyle 

Packed with actionable strategies and expert insights, this book equips agents with the tools to excel in today’s competitive market. From leveraging digital platforms to mastering hyperlocal tactics, Doyle provides a comprehensive roadmap for driving success in real estate marketing.  

If you think you don’t have time to read, consider listening to books on CD or invest in an Audible subscription. You can read for 20 minutes at night or take a coffee and reading break each afternoon. Books are affordable and informative (and often really enjoyable). A few hours in a good book can boost your current and repeat business while enhancing your real estate career. 

While books are great for growing insights and learning new skills, don’t overlook the importance of a quality real estate education. Colibri Real Estate has been the industry’s go-to source for quality online real estate courses. Learn how to be a good agent by learning from Colibri.